Griffith University has jumped 20 places to be first in Queensland, equal second nationally, and equal fourth globally for its performance against the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025.

Griffith placed first in Australia for SDG 6 Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy, SDG 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 14 Life Below Water, and SDG 16 Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

The 17 UN SDGs provide a framework for tackling climate change, providing health and education for all, eradicating inequality and oppression, and supporting sustainable economic growth.

Jennifer Boddy
Dean (Sustainability and Rankings) Professor Jennifer Boddy

Dean (Sustainability and Rankings) Professor Jennifer Boddy said the SDGs provided a universal framework to guide our actions across the university.

“At Griffith, we’re led by our values and prioritise innovation and social impact in our teaching and research, reflecting our commitment to environmental sustainability and social justice,” Professor Boddy said.

“Globally, it’s heartening to see fellow institutions on the same path and see how they continue to focus on some of society’s greatest challenges.

“Thank you to all staff and students who have supported social, environmental, and economic sustainability initiatives and research at Griffith.

“I hope our work inspires the collaborative efforts we need for a sustainable future for all.”

For the past 50 years, Griffith has been a university driven by purpose.

Griffith’s new strategic plan, Creating a Brighter Future For all 2025-2030, is directly aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Goals, and articulates our commitment to focusing on values-informed challenges – Indigenous flourishing, sustainability, health equity, inclusive societies, and ethical technology – to guide research, education, and decision-making.

Griffith University also placed:

  • 3rd for SDG 15 – Life on Land
  • 9th for SDG 5 – Gender Equality
  • 13th for SDG 3 – Good Health and Wellbeing
  • 20th for SDG 13 – Climate Action
  • 21st for SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals
  • 45TH for SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities
  • 69th for SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production

11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
UN Sustainable Development Goals 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

12: Responsible Consumption and Production
UN Sustainable Development Goals 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

13: Climate Action
UN Sustainable Development Goals 13: Climate Action

14: Life Below Water
UN Sustainable Development Goals 14: Life Below Water

15: Life on Land
UN Sustainable Development Goals 15: Life on Land

16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
UN Sustainable Development Goals 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

17: Partnerships for the Goals
UN Sustainable Development Goals 17: Partnerships for the Goals

3: Good Health and Well-being
UN Sustainable Development Goals 3: Good Health and Well-being

5: Gender Equality
UN Sustainable Development Goals 5: Gender Equality

6: Clean Water and Sanitation
UN Sustainable Development Goals 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

7: Affordable and Clean Energy
UN Sustainable Development Goals 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
UN Sustainable Development Goals 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth